The best camping near Castle Provincial Park

Tucked in the southwest corner of Alberta, roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Calgary and not far from Waterton National Park, you’ll find Castle Provincial Park. It’s a Rocky Mountain sanctuary for hikers, mountain bikers, backcountry equestrian riders, off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, and campers. The park features four frontcountry campgrounds (including comfort camping cabins at Beaver Mines Lake Campground and Castle River Bridge Campground), plus seven unserviced but designated campsites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis for free.

• Beaver Mines Lake: Nestled beneath Table Mountain, this campground offers serene lakeside camping.
• Castle Falls: Experience the rush of the nearby falls as you camp in this picturesque setting.
• Lynx Creek: Enjoy a rustic camping experience with first-come, first-serve sites amid lush forestry.

• Book early, as most reservation sites are quickly snapped up for weekend stays.
• Keep an eye on the website for cancellations, taking advantage of the 72-hour cancellation policy.
• Arrive on a Friday for a good chance at securing a first-come, first-serve campsite.
• Explore nearby camping options if the designated campgrounds are full.

The prime time to visit Castle Provincial Park is from Victoria Day to Labour Day, when the full suite of campgrounds and activities are available. Winter offers its own charm with snow-based activities, though some facilities may be limited.

• Check advisories for park closures or restrictions before your visit.
• Accessibility options are available; inquire ahead for specific needs.
• Remember to practice traceless camping and pack out all your trash.
• For backcountry camping, no permit is required, but regulations must be followed.
• Comfort camping options provide a more cosy experience amid the wilderness.